FAQ

What is a limited diagnostic ultrasound?

Limited diagnostic prenatal ultrasounds provide basic data about the baby and your pregnancy including fetal heartbeat, number of gestations, placental location, fetal position, and fetal gender. Limited diagnostic ultrasounds should be viewed as an addendum to, not a substitution for, the Level 1 Screening Ultrasound typically performed before week 12, or the Level 2 Fetal Anatomical Survey typically performed between the 18th and 22nd weeks of pregnancy.

Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor's office?

No. Women seeking a limited diagnostic prenatal ultrasound with our facility must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care, and have already undergone a Level 1 diagnostic ultrasound as ordered by said provider to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and to look for any other pregnancy-related issues.

Do I need a note from my doctor?

Yes, it is our policy that all women requesting a limited diagnostic ultrasound provide documentation that they are receiving prenatal care. Before your ultrasound session, please have the following form completed by your obstetrician or family practitioner. Please fax or bring the completed form with you to your session. This form is a prerequisite before services can be completed.Click here to access the Prenatal Care Verification Form

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services.

How long does the 3D/4D ultrasound take?

Depending on the package you choose, the 3D/4D ultrasound session will last between 15 and 30 minutes. By the time you leave, all of your pictures and peripherals will be ready to take with you! If you choose the Platinum package, or have multiple gestations, plan on spending 45 minutes with us.

How far along should I be before I have a 3D/4D ultrasound?

If you plan on having only one 3D/4D ultrasound examination, we would recommend having the examination performed between the 27th and 34th week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 25 weeks of pregnancy. Many mothers obtain more than one 3D/4D ultrasound (see our Platinum Plus package), and have images to enjoy from, and compare between their second and third trimesters. NOTE: If you are expecting twins/multiples the best time is between 24 and 27 weeks.

Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?

Usually, but not always. Sometimes, baby will persistently position face down, i.e. towards your spine, so it may be difficult to see the his/her face. If this happens, a repositioning or repeat scan will usually succeed because the baby may turn to a more favorable position. However, we make no promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our clinic, or that we can always meet everyone’s expectations. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid, and mother’s physical condition. We promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible images of whatever parts of the baby that can be seen.

Can I bring my family and friends?

Yes. In fact, we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend the limited diagnostic 3D/4D ultrasound session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience, one that should be shared with those you love most. Our spacious studio was designed with the entire family’s comfort in mind. We’re kid-friendly, and our multiple media outlets are configured to provide optimal viewing from any angle. (Limit of 8 adults, please)

What should I wear to my appointment?

Only your midriff will be exposed, so wear something that is comfortable and allows for easy access to your belly.

Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?

Yes, in most cases we can provide an indication of the sex of the baby; however, we can’t guarantee that the baby will cooperate during your session. Certain factors such as mommy’s body tissue content, baby’s developmental stage and fetal position all affect the ability to determine sex.

Is the 3D/4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?

The cost of our limited diagnostic ultrasound is not intended to be a replacement for your physician-ordered ultrasound, and you will need to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out-of-pocket expense; however, in most cases, this procedure is categorized as a qualified expense under most FSA, HSA, and HRA cafeteria plans. We accept cash, AMEX, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and debit cards. Sorry, no personal checks.

What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 3D/4D ultrasounds?

We use the revolutionary GE Voluson 730 Expert to complete all ultrasound examinations. The GE Voluson 730 is the world’s first ultrasound system capable of true Volume Ultrasound. This machine is the best 2D, 3D and 4D prescription diagnostic ultrasound device available, allowing us to explore images in any plane to reveal the smallest details with stunning clarity. Please note, many ultrasound studios claim to use “state-of-the-art” equipment, when in fact they are using a first or second-generation box with dated software, or they simply do 4D upgrades to a 2D unit – all of which greatly compromise the quality of your 3D/4D images. Unquestionably, it’s the equipment that makes the biggest difference in 4D technology, so insist on Voluson – your baby deserves it!

What can I do to improve the quality of my ultrasound?

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER!!! If you don’t normally consume the physician-recommended 64 – 80oz. of water every day, you should consider doing so beginning at least 3 days before your scheduled appointment. Hydration can significantly improve the depth and clarity of an ultrasound. Expectant mothers that are full-figured should consider scheduling their 4D ultrasound between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy, as the ultrasound tends to be clearer and the results more desirable and comparable to the images in our picture gallery.

How much does it cost?

We have ultrasound packages to fit just about anyone’s budget. Please refer to our Ultrasound Pricing page for more information on our available 3D/4D ultrasound packages.

Inside Story

At The Inside Story Ultrasound, we truly consider it a privilege to share with you in the unique pre-labor event only 3D, 4D and 5D imaging can bring. Our aim is to provide a safe, relaxed, and comfortable environment unlike any other medical office or ultrasound facility. Everyday, we dedicate ourselves to making certain all our families enjoy this miraculous experience and leave with life long memories.